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Is There a Photo You Always Take at Weddings?

Many wedding guests come armed with cameras; I know I always do! But is there a certain shot we’re trying to get? Or is it a snap-happy free-for-all?

Judging from the amount of flashes during the special dances and cake-cutting at our wedding, I think most guests are waiting for those particular moments to break out the camera. But, at least going on my poor photography skills, shots of those events tend to come out so-so at best--you find yourself competing with other guests for a good view. I always have backs of guests’ heads in my pictures of those moments!

Lately, I’ve been trying to grab the couple at the reception for a close-up shot if we're good friends. So far, they’ve been happy to oblige--maybe it’s because their pro photog has already gotten them to used to posing for the camera. And some of my favorite photos of me and Paul at our wedding came from our friends’ cameras.

Another shot I always try to get: one of the bride partying her face off. At one friend’s wedding, it was when she let loose at the end of the night with a bottle of Bud. At another’s, it was when she literally let her hair down. And at my own, well, here’s what my friend Kerry snapped of me

I can't help it! I really like me some "Love Shack."

What shots do you try to take at your friends’ weddings? Is there a certain shot you always have to have? Have you had any luck with those special-moment pictures? Please tell me your secrets (besides a pricey camera with an awesome zoom)!